Psalm 143

In moments of disappointment, depression, feeling overlooked, overworked, rejected, resented, empty, persecuted, crushed, or distressed, I encourage you to try praying Psalm 143. 

David prays this from a desperate place.

He knows what it’s like to be forsaken, lonely, and afflicted. And He knows there is no place to go but to God.

Let's go through it together. 

“Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief. Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you. The enemy pursues me, he crushes me to the ground; he makes me dwell in the darkness like those long dead. So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; I thirst for you like a parched land.” Psalm 143:1-6 (NIV)

This psalm opens with a cry for intervention, a plea for mercy in the midst of adversity. It's a call for help, acknowledging God's faithfulness and righteousness.

Hear me. You are faithful. 

“Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit.” Psalm 143:7

Verse 7 brings forth the urgency of the prayer.

Answer me speedily; I’m failing, slipping, losing my grip. Look at me and give life to me.

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

Cause me to hear your loving kindness and trust You. Cause me to know. I’m certain in You.

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalm 143:10 (NIV)

Teach me to do Your will. Lead me in uprightness. 

“For your name’s sake, Lord, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.” Psalm 143:11 (NIV)

Revive me for Your name’s sake—to prove to the world how great is my God! 

Pleading can become a continual prayer. But I just want to encourage you that God is trustworthy for the one who trusts Him.